Rinsing a cocktail glass refers to the process of coating the interior of the glass with a small amount of a specific liquid, typically a type of spirit or liqueur, and then discarding the liquid before adding the main ingredients of the cocktail. The purpose of rinsing is to add a subtle hint of flavor to the cocktail without overpowering it. Most often, rinsing is done with absinthe, as in the case a classic Sazerac. Other spirits and liqueurs can be used as a rinse, including Scotch, Fernet-Branca, elderflower liqueur. Herbs can be used as well, such as spearmint leaves when rubbed against the inside of the serving vessel when making a Zihuatenejo Julep. Overall, rinsing is a technique in just 2% of cocktails available through Tipply.
The slight coating of a rinsed cocktail glass allows you to provide a subtle addition to a mixed drink. As rinsing ingredients are often boldly flavored, this allows for ingredients such as absinthe and Islay Scotches to add a complex element of flavor to a drink without dominating the palette. Unlike adding a small portion of the ingredient to the drink before mixing, a rinse coats the glass, including above the wash line. This allows the rinse ingredient to affect the drinker’s nose, and less the tongue.
To rinse a glass, you simply need a glass and an ingredient! Sure, you can use a jigger to measure a quarter of an ounce, but the exact amount isn’t anything to get fussy about. If you feel like you’re being wasteful, then you’re using too much.
This is where the magic happens. You select a spirit or liqueur that complements your cocktail’s flavor. It could be something like absinthe, vermouth, or even a dash of bitters. Get a small amount, maybe a quarter of an ounce, and pour it into the glass. Here comes the fun part. You gently swirl that glass, my friend. You give it a little dance, coating the walls with that liquid gold. You want that flavor to embrace every inch of that glass, leaving a tantalizing trace behind. If you want to get real fancy, hold the glass between the palm of one hand and the extended fingers of the other, in a smooth and quick motion move one hand forward, the other hand back, while also moving slightly upwards then apart. If done well, this will toss the glass upwards, as the rinsing ingredient coats the glass from the centrifugal force. Just make sure to catch the glass on the way down.
We’re not done just yet. Once the walls are graced with that heavenly elixir, you discard the excess. Pour it out, making sure to leave only a whisper of that precious liquid in there. We want just a hint, a delicate reminder of what’s to come.
Alternatively, you can use an atomizer and spray the inside of your serving vessel with the rinse ingredient. This isn’t a method I use, as I don’t have the bar space for multiple atomizers.
And now, my friend, you’re ready to rock and roll. You add the main ingredients of your cocktail to that rinsed glass, and oh boy, you’re in for a treat. That subtle essence, that touch of flavor left on the walls, will elevate your cocktail to another level. It’s like a secret handshake, a nod to the connoisseurs who appreciate the finer things in life.
So there you have it – the art of rinsing a cocktail glass, as explained by yours truly. Remember, when it comes to cocktails, it’s all about the details. Use a small amount, coat the glass evenly, then discard before filling the vessel with the rest of the ingredients. Enjoy your drink, savor the moment, and cheers to a damn good time.